Obituary: Roger Park Bolton
Roger Park Bolton, died peacefully at his home on January 3, 2026, in Cullman, Alabama. He was born February 14, 1934, in Monroe, Georgia.Mr. Bolton moved to Atlanta as a young boy. He excelled in school and sports, later playing on Georgia Tech’s basketball...
Obituary: Vickie Lynn Goodwin
Memorial Service for Vickie Lynn Goodwin, age 65 of Bremen, will be at 11 a.m. on Saturday, January 10, 2026, at Union Grove Baptist Church.Mrs. Goodwin passed away on Friday, January 2, 2026, at her residence. She was born December 6, 1960, to Paul...
Arrests and Incidents reported January 5, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported January 5, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
December 29
harassing communications; CR 127
possession of dangerous drugs; possession of drug paraphernalia; CR 1398
unauthorized use...
Registered sex offender allegedly using assumed name
CULLMAN, Ala. – According to the Cullman Police Department, a registered sex offender was arrested Jan. 1, 2026, at the Cullman Housing Authority following a tip that he was staying at an address on Logan Avenue under an assumed name.
Myron Clifton Marsh Jr., 61,...
Gudger qualifies for reelection to Alabama Senate District 4
CULLMAN, Ala. – Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman has qualified for reelection to Alabama Senate District 4.
Below is Gudger’s announcement:
State Senator Garlan Gudger (R - Cullman) announced on Monday that he has officially filed qualification papers with the Alabama Republican Party for a new term...
Wallace State women pull away at Motlow State for 84-56 non-conference win
LYNCHBURG, Tenn.- Wallace State women's basketball shook off a slow start and turned in another strong all-around performance Saturday, rolling to an 84–56 non-conference road win at Motlow State.
The Lions led by just three after the opening quarter, taking an 18–15 advantage into the...
Obituary: Billy Charles McCravy
Funeral Service for Billy Charles McCravy, age 94 of Vinemont, will be at 2 p.m. on Monday, January 5, 2026, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home, with Jacob Watts and Randy Roberts officiating. Burial will be at Macedonia Baptist Cemetery in Battleground, with Gary Carter officiating graveside...
COLUMN: Creatures of habit
Do you know the Hokey Pokey song? It begins with, “You put your right foot in, you take your right foot out. You put your right foot in and you shake it all about.” Then after you’ve done all you are told to do,...
Files from Yesteryear: Jan. 3, 1946
From the files of Jan. 3, 1946
HANCEVILLE HAPPENINGS
By HAZEL CARSTENSEN
Mrs. Geo. A. Green spent last week with her mother, Mrs. W. L. Shelton in Electric.
Mrs. Earnest Grund and little daughter, Joyce were the guest of Mr. and Mrs. Fred Grund in Birmingham last week.
Olmer...
PREP BASKETBALL: Addison girls fall, boys roll at home vs. Lynn
ADDISON, Ala.- Addison hosted the Lynn Bears in a boys/girl's matchup with county bragging rights on the line. In their previous matchup, the Lady Bears beat the Addison Lady 'Dawgs while the 'Dawg boys took down the Bears. Tonight was no different, as the Lady Bears...
PREP BASKETBALL: Lady Warriors extend winning streak to 17 with 61-43 win over Lady Aggies
FAIRVIEW, Ala.- The no. 4-ranked West Point Lady Warriors traveled to Fairview to take on the Lady Aggies in Saturday afternoon hoops action. A hot streak from the Lady Warriors gave them a sizable lead early on. Fairview went on runs to try and...
Editorial: Public accountability requires real names, not fake profiles
The Cullman Tribune supports open public discussion on issues that affect community safety, criminal justice and accountability. Those conversations matter, and strong emotions are often part of them.
What does not serve the public is the growing use of fake profiles, burner accounts or accounts...
Bartram exhibit starts tour of Alabama State Parks
Visitors to Lake Guntersville State Park learn about William Bartram's explorations in Alabama. (Photo by Jonathan Gruber)
As one of the first people to experience Alabama’s incredible diversity of landscapes and wildlife, 18th century explorer William Bartram traversed much of central and south Alabama during...
Obituary: Garry Randall Hayes
Funeral Service for Garry Randall Hayes, age 70 of Decatur, will be at 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 17, 2026, at Thompson Chapel Assembly of God; burial at Thompson Chapel Assembly of God. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. - 2 p.m. on Saturday, January 17,...
Obituary: Lena Jean Sellers
Funeral service for Lena Jean Sellers, 86, of Cullman will be at 12 p.m., Tuesday, January 6, 2026, at Cullman Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Mt. Hope Cemetery, Dr. Delbert Freeman officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 11...
‘We’re trying to bring it back to its glory days’
VINEMONT, Ala. - Sportsworld Skate Center hosted a kid-friendly New Year’s Eve celebration Wednesday from 2-5 p.m. before holding its annual all-night skate from 7 p.m.-6 a.m. for teens and adults.
“We used to take our kids to a daytime New Year’s celebration. For us...
Social media reaction to crime story sparks unexpected local response
CULLMAN, Ala. - The story of a Vinemont man being denied bond on sodomy charges involving minor children prompted a wave of reaction on social media — including an unusual grassroots response from local tattoo artists offering discounted or free alterations and cover-ups for...
Longtime City Arborist Darrell Johns dies at 81
CULLMAN, Ala. — Darrell Johns, a longtime City of Cullman employee who spent more than two decades caring for the city’s public trees, died Dec. 24, 2025, at the age of 81.
Johns was born June 19, 1944, in Alabama. Over more than two decades...
Auditions open this month for ‘Pride and Prejudice’
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman Community Theatre will present a classic love story this spring with its production of “Pride and Prejudice,” directed by veteran theater director Kristy McCrickard.
McCrickard, co-chairman of Cullman Community Theatre and one of the organization’s production directors, said the beloved Jane...
No. 9 Alabama football falls to No. 1 Indiana 38-3 in CFP Quarterfinals
PASADENA, Calif. - The No. 9/11/11 Alabama football team saw its season come to a close on Thursday, as the Crimson Tide (11-4) fell 38-3 to No. 1/1/1 Indiana (14-0) in the Quarterfinal Round of the College Football Playoff in the Rose Bowl Game presented...
Obituary: Thomas Lee Mitchell
Funeral service for Thomas Lee Mitchell, 76, will be at 2 p.m., Monday, January 5th, 2026, at Cullman Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Livingston Chapel. The family will receive friends at the funeral home on Monday from 12-2 p.m.
Cullman Funeral Home is honored to serve...
Obituary: Courtney Holmes Ballenger Lynn
Funeral services for Courtney Holmes Ballenger Lynn, 39, of Cullman will be 1 p.m. Monday, January 5th at Hanceville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Hopewell Cemetery. The family will welcome friends for visitation from 3 p.m. to 7 p.m. on...
Arrests and Incidents reported January 2, 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported January 2, 2026. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
No incidents reported.
Arrests
December 29 – December 31
Artiaga, Manuel Alejandro; 22
public intoxication
Cammon, Michael E.; 61
public intoxication
Conn, Katherine L.; 55
FTA –...
Ivey: Alabama secures more than $203M for Rural Health Transformation Program
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Governor Kay Ivey on Dec. 29 announced Alabama has officially received its award number from the Centers for Medicare & Medicaid Services (CMS) for the federal Rural Health Transformation Program (RHTP), formally approving Alabama’s plan and unlocking $203,404,327 in first-year funding....
Op-Ed: The heart behind Curt’s Closet
Death comes to everyone and we all realize that devastating fact. However, there are some deaths that are extremely brutal, and difficult to ever understand. I’m talking about deaths caused by drunk driving! The story I’m referring to happened to the Wilson family on...
A 75th wedding anniversary celebration!
Donald Russell Strandlund graduated from Moline (Illinois) High School in 1948 and entered four years of service in the United State Navy in Memphis, Tennessee. A friend from Cullman, Alabama invited him to meet "a beautiful girl" during his time in Memphis, so he...
Obituary: Thella Ruth Smith
Thella Ruth Wren Smith passed away on December 29th, 2025, at the age of 92. Mrs. Smith was born on June 5, 1933, to W. L. and Lillie Guthrie Wren. She was preceded in death by her husband of 60 years, Doice Smith, her parents, her sister, Tressie...
Obituary: Delba Jean Murphree Bright
Mrs. Delba Jean Murphree Bright passed away at her home on December 31, 2025, at the age of 92.
Delba is preceded in death by her husband of fifty-one years, Ira Edward Bright; her parents, Oncie Murphree and Dessie Lambert Murphree; brothers, Leonard Murphree, Therman Murphree, Rayburn...
Obituary: Elizabeth Ann Adair
Funeral service for Elizabeth Ann Adair, 88, of Vinemont will be at 2 p.m., Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Cullman Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Ebenezer Cemetery, Rev. Tim Dubberly officiating. The family will receive friends at the funeral home from 1 p.m....
Obituary: Howard Ray Posey
Funeral service for Howard Ray Posey, 56, of Cullman will be at 2 p.m., Friday, January 2nd, 2025, at Daystar Church, Pastor Jerry Lawson and Jason Johnson officiating. The family will receive friends at the church on Friday from 12-2 p.m. prior to the...
Editorial: When the mail stops, accountability should not
For years, residents across Cullman County have endured inconsistent and unacceptable mail delivery. Nowhere has that frustration been louder than in the 35057 ZIP code.
On nearly every print day, customers call our office to report that their newspaper never arrived.
Some go an entire week...
Alabama’s largest fishing expo set to debut at the Cullman OmniPlex Jan. 16-18
CULLMAN, Ala. - The largest fishing expo in Alabama history is set to make its debut in Cullman, Jan. 16–18, at the Cullman OmniPlex. The Ultimate Fishing Expo will feature hundreds of vendor booths showcasing fishing gear, expert-led seminars, exclusive show-only deals and numerous...
Farm Kids Club offers hands-on herbal remedies class for kids – Jan. 10
CULLMAN, Ala. - The North Alabama Agriplex will host a Farm Kids Club program, "Herbal Remedies for Kids, by Kids," on Saturday, Jan. 10, from 10-11:30 a.m. This program provides children ages 5 and up with a hands-on introduction to herbal wellness. Sponsored by...
Pet of the Week: Lil Jimmy is ready for the journey
CULLMAN, Ala. - Lil Jimmy is a terrier mix, approximately 1-year-old, who wears his heart on his paw. He’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.
Lil Jimmy is the kind of dog who makes it clear that once he chooses you, you are his...
Aniah’s Law: Vinemont man held without bond in sodomy cases
CULLMAN, Ala. – A Vinemont man will be held without bond in two cases in which he is charged with first-degree sodomy against minor children. The Cullman County District Attorney’s Office said in a statement that Jesse Lee Conn, 33, was ordered held without...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 31, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 31, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 29
identity theft; person
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; general merchandise; $282; Olive St. SW
Arrests
December 30
Brooks, Scotty W.; 45
FTA...
New Year’s Day closures, sanitation delays
CULLMAN, Ala. - Cullman County residents should expect government office closures and limited service adjustments on New Year’s Day, Thursday, Jan. 1, 2026, with most operations resuming Friday, Jan. 2.
Cullman County offices, including the courthouse, will be closed Thursday in observance of the New...
Obituary: Terry Allen Benefield
Terry Allen Benefield, also known as “Beanie” age 53 of Vinemont, Alabama passed away December 26, 2025.
Terry was preceded in death by his father Hollis Benefield, and a host of aunt and uncles.
Terry is survived by his mother Dolly Ruth, brother David (Pam) Benefield,...
Obituary: Donna Joyce Rakestraw
Funeral Service for Donna Joyce Rakestraw, age 85 of Cullman, will be at 1 p.m. on Saturday, January 3, 2026, at Fairview First Baptist Church with Dr. David Chambers officiating; graveside services and burial will be at First Baptist Church of Fairview. Visitation will be from...
Obituary: Margie Veal
Funeral Service for Margie Veal, age 93, of Cullman, will be at 2 p.m. on Sunday, January 4, 2026, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home with Rev. Wendell Bennett officiating; burial at Oak Level Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 p.m.-2 p.m. on Sunday, January 4, 2026,...
PREP BASKETBALL: Cold Springs closes out 2025 with a sweep of Leeds
BREMEN, Ala.- Cold Springs closed out 2025 with a pair of home games against Leeds on Tuesday night, and both Eagle squads ended up sweeping Leeds. In the varsity girls' game, the Lady Eagles held the lead after one and quickly broke the game...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 30, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 30, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
No incidents reported.
Arrests
December 29
Howard, Adam R.; 34
FTA – expired...
Obituary: Charlotte Ann White
Charlotte Ann White, of Blountsville, Alabama, entered the presence of our Lord and Savior on December 28, 2025, at the age of 77. Ms. White was born in Trussville, Alabama, on January 1, 1948.
Charlotte is preceded in death by her parents, Joy Albert Inzer...
Editorial: I quit New Year’s resolutions and nothing fell apart
Most years, New Year’s Eve arrives with a familiar ritual. Resolutions are made. Promises are declared. Jan. 1 is treated like a universal reset button, pressed at the same moment by millions of people hoping this time will be different.
And for a short while,...
New Year’s traditions
As the year comes to a close and a new year begins, cultures around the world welcome the new year with traditions believed to bring luck, prosperity and fresh beginnings.
In the United States, one of the most recognizable customs is singing “Auld Lang Syne”...
CCSO and CPD share tips for NYE safety
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office and Cullman Police Department are sharing ways to be safe on New Year’s Eve.
Sheriff Matt Gentry said as his department rings in the new year, the CCSO wants everyone to enjoy the night — but be...
PREP BASKETBALL: Cullman knocks off Hewitt-Trussville 67-59 in Border Wars Classic
ATHENS, Ala.- The Cullman Bearcats traveled to Athens to take on the Hewitt-Trussville Huskies in the Border Wars Classic on Monday night. A big second quarter by Cullman helped them take a double-digit lead into the locker room, but a late rally in the...
New Year’s Eve plans take shape around the area
CULLMAN, Ala. - As the calendar turns toward the new year, several businesses and venues in and around Cullman County have announced New Year’s Eve events, ranging from family-friendly celebrations to live music and late-night activities.
Events currently scheduled for Dec. 31 offer options throughout...
Christkindlmarkt sets single-day attendance record, sees visitors from all 50 states
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman Christkindlmarkt continued its rapid growth in 2025, posting record attendance numbers, expanded national and international visitation and a sharp rise in economic impact, according to Nathan Anderson, executive director of Cullman Parks, Recreation & Sports Tourism.
Attendance estimates compiled by...
Bosom Buddies sees successful 2025, looks to 2026
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman Bosom Buddies Foundation was founded 12 years ago to support local cancer patients. The nonprofit is supported by annual fundraising events and donations.
Cullman County Bosom Buddies Foundation President Jennifer Limerick said one of the most meaningful moments of 2025...
First Day Hikes at Alabama State Parks offer chance to see sunrise, sunset, everything in between
MONTGOMERY, Ala. – Kick off 2026 with fresh air and a sense of adventure while enjoying some of Alabama’s most scenic views by participating in a First Day Hike at an Alabama State Park.
Alabama State Parks will again offer First Day Hikes on Jan. 1,...
Obituary: Roger Dale Bowen, Sr.
A Memorial Visitation for Roger Dale Bowen, Sr., age 69, of Vinemont, will be Saturday, Feb. 7, 2026, from noon-1 p.m. at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home.Cullman Heritage Funeral Home is in charge of arrangements.Mr. Bowen passed away on Sunday, Dec. 28, 2025, at Cullman...
Obituary: Hurdline “Hassie” McCroy
Hurdline “Hassie” McCroy, age 85, of Cullman, Alabama, passed away on December 27, 2025.
She was born to the late Alton & Katherine Maybelle Guthery Johnson, and was preceded in death by her beloved husband, Ralph McCroy; her son, Darrell McCroy; her daughter, April McCroy;...
CCSO announces multiple drug arrests
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman County Sheriff’s Office on Monday, Dec. 29, said it was “proud to share the results of recent proactive enforcement efforts that led to multiple significant drug arrests.”
Sheriff Matt Gentry said the arrests are a direct reflection of deputies being...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 29, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 29, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
Incidents
December 22
possession of dangerous drugs; possession of marijuana; possession of drug paraphernalia; Hwy. 278E
theft of...
Obituary: Lela Mae Davis
Lela Mae Davis, born on October 31, 1944, in Paint Rock, Alabama, passed away on December 27, 2025, at the age of 81. She was a resident of Hanceville, Alabama.
Lela Mae Davis is survived by her husband, Curtis Davis; her daughters, Tina Brown (Mike),...
Cullman County Democrats set qualifying period for 2026 election cycle
CULLMAN, Ala. - At a meeting earlier this month, the Cullman County Democrats Executive Committee approved the qualifying period for the 2026 election cycle. This election year will include county party positions, selected positions for Cullman County offices, State Democratic Executive Committee members and...
Files from Yesteryear: Dec. 27, 1928
From the files of Dec. 27, 1928
Bees and Butterflies
Carl Thompson is ill with the flu.
Harry Scheuing is quite ill this week.
Mrs. Robert Rosson is quite ill with flu.
C. C. Scheuing has recovered from the flu.
Mrs. Harry Scheuing is quite ill with the flu.
C. E....
COLUMN: The real Christmas story
Once upon a time, long, long ago, there lived a young lady named Mary. Mary was engaged to be married to a man named Joseph. Before they were wed, and while she was still a virgin, Mary was found to be with child. God...
Obituary: Rosa Lee Tabor
Rosa Lee Tabor, born on April 7, 1931, in Clovis NM, Passed away on December 24th, 2025, at the age of 94.
A resident of Cullman, Alabama, Rosa was known for her kind and happy personality.
She was loved by many friends and enjoyed a life...
Obituary: Billy Joe Cochran
A graveside service for Billy Joe Cochran, 71, of Hanceville will be 2 p.m. Sunday, December 28th at Hopewell Cemetery.
Mr. Cochran was born October 8, 1954, in Cullman, Alabama. He passed away December 24, 2025, in Falkville, Alabama.
Hanceville Funeral Home is honored to...
Obituary: Lisa Dahlke
Funeral Service for Lisa Dahlke, age 50, of Hanceville, will be at 2 p.m. on Monday, December 29, 2025, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home with Andy Heis officiating; burial will be at Cullman City Cemetery. Visitation will be from 12 p.m.-2 p.m. on Monday, December 29,...
Op-Ed: Tips for a calm pregnancy
I went into my pregnancy journey knowing the absolute basics. I’d read all the highly praised books and even listened to a few parental guidance podcasts. Once you’re in it for yourself those books are rather arbitrary. They can aid in giving you direction,...
Spanish classes coming to Shirley Burden Public Library this winter
HANCEVILLE, Ala. - Spanish classes will be offered this winter at the Shirley Burden Public Library in Hanceville. The classes will be held on Tuesdays from 11 a.m.-noon, with sessions scheduled for Jan. 6, Jan. 20, Feb. 3 and Feb. 17.
Alejandra Pena, who has...
Op-Ed: Differentiating AI art from real content
Over recent months I have noticed an increase in AI content on social media. It was horrific to see several people interacting with the posts and actively engaging in the comments under the impression that it is legitimate footage. Now, this isn’t a new...
Pet of the Week: Bowen is ready to be your constant companion
CULLMAN, Ala. - Bowen is a domestic longhair cat, approximately 1 year old, and the kind of companion who settles into your life as easily as he settles into your arms or lap. He’s The Cullman Tribune Pet of the Week.
Calm, affectionate and deeply...
CHS cheer teams celebrate championship season, set sights on national competition
CULLMAN, Ala. - The Cullman High School Junior Varsity and Varsity cheer programs, said the school system, “have completed an extraordinary season marked by hard work, growth, and remarkable achievements across all four teams: JV and Varsity Traditional and JV and Varsity Gameday. Throughout...
ACES: Upcycling after the holiday season
Recycling is a sustainable, eco-friendly practice that benefits individuals, families, businesses and communities. By extending the life and usability of materials such as plastic, paper, metal, glass and electronics, we conserve natural resources, reduce pollution, and lower carbon emissions. Modern recycling centers and recurring...
Wallace State faculty member killed in house fire
DECATUR, Ala. – A Wallace State Community College faculty member was killed in a house fire in the early morning hours of Friday, Dec. 26, 2025.
According the reporting from WHNT News 19, Morgan County Coroner Jeff Chunn identified the victim as Susan Beck, 62,...
Obituary: Darrell Johns
Darrell Johns, born on June 19, 1944, in Alabama, passed away on December 24, 2025, at the age of 81.
Darrell is survived by his daughters, DeAnne Johns and Leanne Sterling (Anthony); granddaughters Ashley, Bethony, and Callie; grandsons Josh and Hunter; and great-grandchildren Ember, Alaya,...
Obituary: Donald Fredrick Collins
Donald Fredrick Collins, age 84 of Cullman, passed away on Wednesday, December 24, 2025, at Westminster Assisted Living of Cullman. He was born October 18, 1941. He was preceded in death by his parents. Survivors include his sister-in-law, Patsy E Baker and brother, Jim Phillips. No services are planned at this time.
Obituary: Terrie J. Lippeatt
A memorial service for Terrie J. Lippeatt, 59, will be held in February at Carey Farms in Vinemont. Date and time to be announced.
Cullman Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.
Terrie passed away December 24, 2025, after a long, hard fight with cancer. She grew...
Obituary: Johnny Ray Givens
Memorial service for Johnny Ray Givens, 73, of Cullman is incomplete at this time.
Cullman Funeral Home is honored to serve the family.
Mr. Givens passed away Tuesday, December 23rd, 2025, at his residence. He was born February 2, 1952, to Alem Jessie & Lester Samantha...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 26, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 26, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 18
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; general merchandise; $157; Hwy. 157
December 20
theft of property-4th degree; Wal-Mart; Christmas...
Oak Mountain’s new pump track elevates Alabama’s mountain biking status
SHELBY COUNTY, Ala. - Alabama is quickly becoming a destination for mountain biking enthusiasts, and the addition of a new pump track and more than 10 miles of new trails at Oak Mountain State Park in Shelby County enhances that elevated status.
At a recent...
Cullman County Library offers free grant research tool for nonprofits
CULLMAN, Ala. — Cullman County nonprofit leaders and community organizations now have access to a powerful new funding research resource through the Cullman County Public Library System.
Library officials recently announced the availability of Candid, a comprehensive tool designed to help nonprofits identify potential funding...
COLUMN: Sore feet, no seat
I’ve done some dumb things in my life. Over the years, I’ve displayed an All-American level of stupidity on a number of occasions. Once, I gave my wife a gift card for Christmas. What’s worse, it was for Home Depot – that’s stupid. I...
Editorial: Christmas, every day it counted
Christmas meant something different to me growing up.
Santa was never part of the equation. Not because I was cynical or angry or deprived of imagination, but because I understood early that Santa did not write IOUs. He did not wait until tax refunds arrived....
Obituary: Wyoma Dean Folds
Funeral service for Wyoma Dean Folds, 90, of Cullman will be at 1 p.m., Saturday, December 27th, 2025 at Cullman Funeral Home Chapel with interment in Welti Cumberland Presbyterian Cemetery, Jeffrey Folds officiating. The family will receive friends on Saturday from 11-1 p.m. prior...
Man from Arab dies after Christmas Eve ATV crash in Cullman County
CULLMAN, Ala. - A man from Arab was killed in a single-vehicle crash involving an all-terrain vehicle (ATV) that occurred at approximately 10 p.m. Wednesday, Dec. 24. Alabama State Troopers identified the victim as Jeremiah R. Sivley, 24.
Troopers said Sivley was critically injured when...
Cullman County seniors celebrate the season
CULLMAN, Ala. - Seniors gathered for the annual Cullman County Senior Christmas Party hosted by the Cullman County Commission on Aging (COA) and the Active Adult Center on Dec. 16. The annual favorite brought together volunteers, elected officials and community partners to celebrate the...
Recipe revival: Traditional English scones
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
For Elizabeth Adkins, a warm scone fresh from the oven is far more than a simple baked good.
English scones are a traditional treat from...
Restaurant Feature: Eat by the water at Drifters Bar & Grill
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
Drifters Bar & Grill is a family run restaurant shaped by prayer and persistence, set right on beautiful Smith Lake.
Owners Tanya and Jason Veres...
Hidden Gems: The sweet surprise that is Seven Winds Kitchen
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
Cullman is home to many unique places, shops and hidden gems. Nestled in Logan along County Road 222, Seven Winds Kitchen is a story...
Business spotlight: Weeds N Roots Herbals shares holistic healing locally
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
DeAnn Duke’s journey in herbal medicine began in 1996, when her then 3-year-old son had suffered repeated ear infections — she decided to seek...
Youth present ‘A Christmas Yarn’
CULLMAN, Ala. - Heirlooms Fine and Performing Arts presented “A Christmas Yarn” on Friday, Dec. 19, at St. John’s Church, marking their final performance of the season.
The production was performed by the Heirlooms Players, a homeschool theater class made up primarily of first-time performers....
GET BITTER OR GET BETTER: After an ACL injury derailed her freshman season, Wallace State’s Bailey Tetro had to choose
HANCEVILLE, Ala.- If you look up on the wall of Good Hope high school’s basketball arena, you’ll see the name Bailey Tetro. The banner immortalized her achievement of leading the 4A Lady Raiders to a 33-2 record and the first state championship in school...
Obituary: Joyce O’Brien
Funeral services for Joyce O’Brien, 84, of Hanceville, will be 1 p.m. Friday December 26th at Hanceville Funeral Home Chapel. Burial will follow the service at Hopewell Cemetery. Visitation will be prior to the service from 11 a.m. until 1 p.m. at Hanceville Funeral Home.
Mrs. O’Brien...
Obituary: Jane Ballard Mize
Jane Ballard Mize passed away peacefully on December 19, 2025, in Temple, Texas, of natural causes.
Jane was born on December 1, 1938, in Good Hope, Alabama, to Ed and Corina Ballard. She was a proud graduate of Good Hope High School, where she met...
Day in the life of a Duchess Bakery employee
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
When most of Cullman is still asleep, Duchess Bakery employees begin their day long before the first customer walks through the door.
One of those...
Business spotlight: Tally Ho Fitness more than your average gym
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
Tally Ho Fitness is more than your average gym; the moment you step through the doors, you'll experience the kind of encouragement that makes...
EDITORIAL: The weight that never leaves
There is a kind of tired that has nothing to do with sleep. It does not go away with rest, routine or time. It is the exhaustion of waking up every day already worn down, already negotiating with yourself just to exist.
Living with constant...
Local Heroes: Servant, teacher, giver
This feature originally ran in the November 2025-January 2026 issue of Community Matters, the quarterly magazine produced by The Cullman Tribune.
If someone asked, “Who is Keenan Hollingsworth?” I’m not sure there would be enough time to explain all her hats and descriptions.
Hollingsworth, M.Ed., is a...
Obituary: Carolyn Marie Tarvin
Carolyn Tarvin age 79 of Holly Pond, AL passed away on Monday morning, December 22, 2025. She was born, July 25, 1946, to Stephen & Lillian Elizabeth Williams. She was proceeded in death by her parents; her son, Joseph Tarvin & granddaughter, Leah Grace Tarvin. Survivors include her husband, Tommy Joe Tarvin;...
Obituary: Mary Jo Gerstman
Funeral Service for Mary Jo Gerstman, age 80 of Vinemont, will be at 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Cullman Heritage Funeral Home; burial at Rock Springs Cemetery. Visitation will be from 1 p.m. - 3 p.m. on Sunday, December 28, 2025, at Cullman...
Obituary: Anthony Bruce Wise
Graveside service for Anthony Bruce Wise, 68, of Cullman will be at 11 a.m., Friday, December 26th, 2025, at New Prospect Baptist Cemetery, Rev. Steve Rodgers officiating.
Cullman Funeral Home is in charge of the arrangements.
Mr. Wise passed away December 20, 2025, at CRMC. He was born January 21, 1957, to...
Arrests and Incidents reported December 23, 2025
CULLMAN, Ala. – Below are the arrests and incidents reported December 23, 2025. All persons are innocent until proven guilty.
GJ = grand jury; FTA = failure to appear
Cullman County Sheriff’s Office
No arrests or incidents reported.
Cullman Police Department
Incidents
December 17
theft of property-4th degree; Monograms Plus; general merchandise; $162; Main Ave. NE
December 19
duty upon striking...
JR Bowling announces candidacy for Alabama Senate District 4
DANVILLE, Ala. – Republican JR Bowling has announced his candidacy for Alabama Senate District 4. The seat is currently held by Sen. Garlan Gudger, R-Cullman.
Below is Bowling’s announcement:
JR Bowling, a lifelong North Alabama resident leading with Christian values, patriotism and determination has announced his...
Birdie Box to host 2-Man Best Ball Christmas Tournament Dec. 27
CULLMAN, Ala. – Birdie-Box is set to host a 2-Man Best Ball Christmas Tournament on Saturday, Dec. 27, beginning at 1 p.m. Each team member’s entry includes a meal provided by Birdie-Box’s in-house kitchen, and participants are encouraged to embrace the holiday spirit by...
2025 in Cullman County: Challenge, change and community
CULLMAN, Ala. - From unprecedented challenges to public trust to historic investments in education and infrastructure, 2025 reshaped Cullman County in lasting ways.
The year was not defined by a single headline but by a sequence of moments that demanded reflection, required accountability and revealed...
